A Fun-Filled Day Exploring Orléans, France

Discover the historical charm of Orléans, where Joan of Arc once stood.

22 April 2023

As a tourist in Orléans, France, one can explore the rich history of Joan of Arc by visiting the famous cathedral and statue dedicated to her. The charming city also offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes such as escargots and tarte tatin. Additionally, taking a stroll along the Loire River and exploring the many quaint neighborhoods is a great way to soak up the beauty and culture of Orléans.

Day trip plan

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Day

Discovering Orléans

  • Start your day with a visit to the stunning Orléans Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a symbol of the city's long history.
  • Take a stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, admiring the timber-framed houses and quaint shops.
  • Head to the Joan of Arc statue and learn more about the incredible story of this legendary heroine who liberated the city from the English in 1429.
  • Grab a bite to eat at the bustling Place du Martroi, where you can sample some of the best local specialties, from escargots to andouillette sausages.
  • Walk along the picturesque Loire River and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of the stunning Parc Floral de la Source, a botanical garden filled with exotic flowers and plants.
  • End your day with a visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, one of France's finest art museums, featuring works by famous painters such as Monet, Picasso, and Delacroix.
  • There's so much to discover in Orléans in just one day from its rich history to its vibrant culture and cuisine. So why not take a trip to this stunning city and see it for yourself?

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Orléans by plane is to fly to Paris and then take a train to Orléans. The nearest major airport to Orléans is Paris Orly Airport (ORY), which is located approximately 120 km away. From Orly, you can take a train from Paris Austerlitz station to Orléans station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour.

Car

The best way to get to Orléans by car is to drive from Paris. The journey takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic. There are several car rental companies located at Paris Orly Airport if you need to rent a car.

Train

The best way to get to Orléans by train is to take the high-speed train (TGV) from Paris. You can take the TGV from Paris Montparnasse station to Orléans station, which takes approximately 1 hour. Alternatively, you can take a regional train from Paris Austerlitz station to Orléans station, which takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Orléans by boat, as the city is not located near any major waterways. However, you can take a boat tour on the Loire River from nearby cities such as Tours or Blois, which are both located approximately 1 hour away by car or train.

Bus

The best way to get to Orléans by bus is to take a FlixBus from Paris. The journey takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes and there are several departures per day from Paris Bercy station.

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